How short is a crew cut?

Traditionally, the top measures ½ " to 2 " while the sides fade down from a #4 to as low as skin.

Is a crew cut the same as a buzz cut?

No. A buzz cut is one uniform length all over, whereas a crew cut is longer on top and tapered on the sides.

Yes. Keeping hair short reduces contrast between sparse and dense areas, making thinning less obvious.

Absolutely ask your barber to leave enough length up top (≈1") so curls can form, and use curl cream.

Oval and square faces shine, but a skilled barber can tailor fades and length to flatter any shape.